Best Des Moines to Pittsburgh Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Des Moines to Pittsburgh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 797 mile move from Iowa to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Des Moines to Pittsburgh moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Pittsburgh Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Pittsburgh. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Des Moines to Pittsburgh Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Pittsburgh Moving9.649.51Authorized For HHG
2Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
3Best Move Inc9.269.19Authorized For Property
4Meta Movers9.159.43Authorized For HHG
5Hemmen Moving9.129.47Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Des Moines to Pittsburgh?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 797 miles from Des Moines, IA to Pittsburgh, PA will cost on average $2,459 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Pittsburgh move is roughly $5,901. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,654300 ft³$5.51
1 Bedroom$2,459450 ft³$5.46
2 Bedrooms$4,061750 ft³$5.41
3 Bedrooms$5,9011100 ft³$5.36
4 Bedrooms$8,5031600 ft³$5.31
5+ Bedrooms$9,4761800 ft³$5.26
*Please note: These Iowa to Pennsylvania moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Iowa & Pennsylvania. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed IA to PA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pittsburgh to Des Moines guide.

Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Pittsburgh Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Pittsburgh Moving Logo

Pittsburgh Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 1,121+ data points

5746 Pierce St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15232

About Pittsburgh Moving

Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...

Services

  • Local move in Pittsburgh
  • Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
  • Residential move

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3901080 / 1437162

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo

Adamantine Spine Moving

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 898+ data points

2815 36th St

Des Moines, IA, 50310

About Adamantine Spine Moving

With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment/Condo Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Best Move Inc Logo

Best Move Inc

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 471+ data points

Burlington, IA, 52601

About Best Move Inc

Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its...

Services

  • Material Packing
  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

749231 / 376435

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,976 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Meta Movers Logo

Meta Movers

Exceptional9.15/10
based on 310+ data points

13 Holt St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15203

About Meta Movers

Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...

Services

  • Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
  • Long distance residential and commercial moves
  • Loading or unloading your truck or pod

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3295834 / 1044452

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Hemmen Moving Logo

Hemmen Moving

Exceptional9.12/10
based on 594+ data points

1293 W Ave

Ames, IA, 50014

About Hemmen Moving

For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long distance moving
  • Small moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

608245 / 292343

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved604,536 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Des Moines vs. Pittsburgh Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide is designed to help ease that transition by providing a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Pittsburgh, PA . By comparing top neighborhoods in Des Moines with their counterparts in Pittsburgh, you can find a new home that matches your lifestyle and preferences.

Des MoinesPittsburghHow They're Similar
BeaverdaleSquirrel HillVibrant community, rich in family-friendly amenities
East VillageShadysideEclectic shops, dining scene, and cultural diversity
Waveland ParkPoint BreezeQuiet, leafy streets with stately homes
Sherman HillLawrencevilleHistorical charm, vibrant arts scene
DrakeBloomfieldDense, walkable with a unique blend of old and new
Highland ParkHighland ParkResonant names, extensive parkland, and community focus
South of GrandMount WashingtonStunning views, upscale dining, and quiet neighborhoods
WaterburyFriendshipHistoric homes, close to amenities while maintaining a peaceful vibe
Ingersoll ParkPolish HillQuirky, strong sense of community, urban feel
Gray's LakeRiverfrontAccess to water, recreation, and green space

If you're moving from Beaverdale, you might find Squirrel Hill appealing for its vibrant community spirit and abundance of family-friendly amenities, such as the nearby Schenley Park. East Village and Shadyside both offer a similar eclectic mix of shops, dining, and cultural diversity, making them perfect for those who enjoy a lively neighborhood atmosphere. For those accustomed to the tranquil, leafy streets of Waveland Park, Point Breeze in Pittsburgh offers a similar vibe, with the added bonus of proximity to The Frick Pittsburgh for cultural outings. Lastly, if the historic charm and community focus of Sherman Hill have been to your liking, you'll find a similar vibe in Lawrenceville, known for its vibrant arts scene and historical row houses.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Pittsburgh

Moving from one city to another presents an opportunity to weigh the advantages against the disadvantages. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Pittsburgh, PA . It's a visual guide to understanding the changes you'll encounter, allowing you to prepare for both the perks and challenges ahead.

CONs
PROs
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Less public transit
  • Lower restaurant variety
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Richer cultural diversity
  • More career options
  • Extensive public transportation
  • Greater culinary diversity
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic
  • Smaller living spaces
  • Steeper learning curve for navigation
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic congestion
  • More spacious homes
  • Easier navigation

Moving from Des Moines to Pittsburgh offers a chance to immerse yourself in a city brimming with cultural diversity and rich history. In Pittsburgh, you'll find an abundance of career opportunities across various industries, notably in healthcare, education, and technology. The city's extensive public transportation system, including buses and the Pittsburgh Light Rail, makes commuting easier than ever. For culinary enthusiasts, Pittsburgh's restaurant scene is a melting pot of international cuisines and innovative dining experiences. While Des Moines provides a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle with spacious homes and less congestion, Pittsburgh invites you to explore vibrant neighborhoods, from the historic charm of Lawrenceville to the bustling avenues of Downtown. Though the cost of living might be higher, the array of parks, such as Schenley Park, restaurants like Primanti Bros., and sights including the Andy Warhol Museum, more than compensates by enriching your daily life with unique experiences and the beauty of Pittsburgh's landscape.

Des Moines vs. Pittsburgh Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Pittsburgh to help you acclimate to the food scene in your new city. Understanding food is essential because it reflects the culture and lifestyle of a place. Let's dive into what culinary delights await you.

Des Moines
Pittsburgh
Most iconic local food item
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Pierogi
Most popular meat dish
Iowa Chop
Primanti Bros. Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Sweet Corn
Haluski
Most popular vegan food
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
Seitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Aria Steakhouse
  • El Bait Shop
  • Primanti Bros.
  • Pamela's Diner
  • The Church Brew Works
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In exploring the food scene of Pittsburgh, you'll discover neighborhoods like the Strip District and Lawrenceville buzzing with culinary creativity. The iconic Primanti Bros., known for its skyscraper sandwiches loaded with fries and coleslaw, encapsulates the hearty, blue-collar spirit of the city. Pittsburgh’s vibrant foodie scene also showcases a commendable variety of vegan and plant-based options, with places like Apteka and B52 Cafe leading the charge in innovative vegan dining. Whether you’re sampling pierogis at a traditional Polish Hill spot or grabbing Seitan wings in Shadyside, Pittsburgh offers an eclectic mix of foods that cater to every palate.

Des Moines vs. Pittsburgh Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This comparison charts will help bridge the familiarity gap, guiding you through a gastronomic journey from Des Moines, IA to Pittsburgh, PA , assisting in finding your new favorite spots through beloved local flavors.

Des MoinesPittsburghWhat You'll Love
Aku AkuHidden HarborTropical atmosphere and expertly crafted tiki drinks
Zombie Burger + Drink LabBurgatoryCreative burgers and shakes with a vibrant environment
CentroDiAnoia's EateryItalian cuisine with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients
Fong's PizzaDriftwood OvenInnovative pizza offerings with a twist on traditional flavors
DjangoParis 66Authentic French bistro experience with a cozy setting
El Bait ShopChurch Brew WorksA unique brewery experience within a historic building
HarbingerCureFarm-to-table dining with a seasonal menu focused on local ingredients
ProofAltiusModern dining with a focus on innovative dishes
Mi Patria Ecuadorian RestaurantCasa ReynaTraditional Mexican with an array of authentic dishes
Exile Brewing Co.East End Brewing CompanyCraft beers with a focus on quality and community

For culinary adventurers moving from Des Moines to Pittsburgh, there's no need to worry about missing your favorite dishes. Just like Exile Brewing Co. provides a local haven for craft beer enthusiasts in Des Moines, East End Brewing Company fills that niche in Pittsburgh, promoting a love for community and high-quality brews. If you're missing the uniquely thrilling dining experience of Aku Aku, you'll find a similar vibe at Hidden Harbor, where the tropical décor and elaborate tiki drinks transport you to an island paradise without leaving the city. Whether you’re craving the innovative pizzas of Fong's Pizza or the creative burger combinations found at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, Driftwood Oven and Burgatory in Pittsburgh offer comparable culinary delights that promise to satisfy your taste buds while offering their unique take on casual dining.

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Des Moines vs. Pittsburgh Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning your move from Des Moines, IA to Pittsburgh, PA, understanding the real estate market is crucial. This comparison highlights key differences in housing options, offering insights into costs, styles, and livability. Let's dive into how these cities stack up.

Des Moines
Pittsburgh
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch and Craftsman
Victorian and Colonial
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, quiet streets
Close to amenities, historic charm

In comparing Des Moines and Pittsburgh, you'll notice significant differences in the housing market and urban lifestyle. Pittsburgh offers a more vibrant urban experience with a higher walkability and bikeability score, signifying a city dense enough to support a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle. This is complemented by the city's rich stock of historic Victorian and Colonial homes that often feature proximity to local amenities, highlighting Pittsburgh's preference for charm and convenience. On the other hand, Des Moines tends to offer more space with its ranch and Craftsman homes, highlighting spacious yards and quiet streets, catering to those who prioritize privacy and tranquility. The difference in median home prices and monthly rents reflects these lifestyle and architectural variations, with Pittsburgh presenting a more affordable option for homebuyers, although renters may find Des Moines to be slightly less expensive.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA

1. Shadyside : You’ll find this neighborhood’s walkability and abundance of pet-friendly patios make it an ideal spot for both you and your furry friends.

2. Lawrenceville : With its numerous parks and dog-friendly cafes, Lawrenceville is a perfect place if you’re looking for a vibrant community that welcomes pets.

3. Squirrel Hill : This neighborhood offers a variety of local parks and green spaces, ensuring you have ample opportunities for outdoor activities with your pets.

Des Moines vs. Pittsburgh Weather Considerations

When relocating, understanding weather differences between your current and future home is crucial. This guide compares Des Moines, IA, and Pittsburgh, PA weather to help you prepare for the change.

Des Moines
Pittsburgh
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornadoes, Floods
Floods, Snowstorms
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

86/65
82/62
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

31/14
35/21


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
38
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

33
41


Although both Des Moines and Pittsburgh experience four distinct seasons, you'll find that winters are slightly milder in Pittsburgh, with higher low temperatures and more snowfall due to its northern and elevated location. You may also notice fewer sunny days per year in Pittsburgh, which could affect your daily outdoor activities. Furthermore, while both cities face natural disasters like floods, Des Moines is also prone to tornadoes, offering a different risk profile that you should prepare for. These subtle climate and weather differences can impact everything from your wardrobe to your transportation choices, so it's essential to consider them when planning your move.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Pittsburgh

When you're considering a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is vital. This comparison aims to highlight the economic differences between Des Moines, IA, and Pittsburgh, PA, focusing on factors such as income, taxes, and living costs. Knowing these differences will better prepare you for the financial adjustments needed in your new city.

Des Moines
Pittsburgh
Avg. Household Income
$60,693
$57,821
Cost of Living Index
90.9
91.5
State Income Tax
Up to 8.53%
Up to 3.07%
Avg. Property Tax
1.5%
1.58%
Avg. Sales Tax
7%
7%
Top 3 Industries
Insurance, Finance, Healthcare
Technology, Healthcare, Education
Affluence
Moderate
Moderate to High
Poverty
Moderate
Moderate
Homelessness
Low
Low to Moderate

Although the average household income in Des Moines is slightly higher than in Pittsburgh, the cost of living index also suggests that daily expenses might be somewhat lower in Iowa's capital. However, Pennsylvania's lower state income tax rate could potentially counterbalance this difference, making Pittsburgh an attractive option for those looking to maximize their income. Both cities boast significant healthcare industries, yet Pittsburgh diversifies with a focus on technology and education, hinting at varied job opportunities. Despite the apparent economic and tax discrepancies, both locales offer comparable environments concerning affluence, poverty levels, and homelessness.

Des Moines vs. Pittsburgh Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Des Moines, IA, to Pittsburgh, PA, it's important to understand how each city's residents align on key societal dimensions. This comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Pittsburgh alongside religious practices offers a quick snapshot for potential newcomers.

Des Moines
Pittsburgh
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive on local issues
Highly progressive, active local government
Religion
Christian majority with diverse religious communities
Largely Christian, with a significant Jewish community (source)

When you move from Des Moines to Pittsburgh, you’ll notice a shift towards a more strongly Democratic political landscape, reflecting Pittsburgh's active and progressive local governance. While both cities boast a Christian majority, Pittsburgh stands out with its significant Jewish community, providing a rich tapestry of religious and cultural diversity. This variety enriches the local culture, offering you a wider array of community engagements and festivals that celebrate both cities' diversity.

Des Moines vs. Pittsburgh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Des Moines, IA to Pittsburgh, PA? This comparison will help you better understand the daily commute and traffic, alongside transportation options in both cities. It's essential for planning your move and adjusting to your new home.

Des Moines
Pittsburgh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
20.4
26.1
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes, with some planning

Moving to Pittsburgh, you’ll notice a significant shift in your daily commute. With its higher traffic congestion score, Pittsburgh might initially seem daunting. However, the availability of public transit rated significantly better here allows for a viable alternative to driving. Services like the Port Authority Transit offer comprehensive bus and light rail options covering most of the city. This makes living without a car more feasible in Pittsburgh than in Des Moines, where public transit options are relatively limited.

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